Written by Julia Jenkins
On March 14-15, Harding will host its annual Bloom women’s conference, an event dedicated to bringing women of all ages together for encouragement and fellowship. This year’s theme, “Free to Be Fearless,” is designed to inspire women to embrace bold faith and live courageously in Christ.
Alicia Williamson, Bible professor and Bloom committee member, shared the vision behind the theme.
“I think a part of that was just helping women learn how to live passionately for God without being afraid and just that idea of God equipping us with these spiritual tools to live courageously,” Williamson said.
Previously known as Wings, the conference has long provided a space for Christian women to connect and support one another. In taking a new direction this year, Williamson and the planning committee anticipate it will be larger than ever. The event will feature keynote speakers Pam Tebow and Tiffany Malone, along with breakout sessions led by students, faculty and staff.
Among the student speakers is Senior Allie Grace Matheny, who plans to emphasize the power of personal testimonies.
“What I really want is for them to hear that, no matter the darkest parts of their testimony,that is the part that’s gonna help someone else through their life,” Matheny said.
This conference will provide a space for women to be able to come together and share what is on their hearts and minds from one woman to another. Sessions cover a variety of faith-based topics, attendees will have opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions and reflect on their own spiritual journeys.
Junior Bailey Mundy, another student speaker, will discuss how the Gospel empowers believers to live fearlessly.
“The gospel has changed our life and our story has power because of what Christ has done through us,” Mundy said. “So I’m really excited because, I mean, we literally get to talk about the thing that changes us from being in fear to being fearless.”
This year’s conference is free for Harding students and will offer keynote speeches, breakout sessions, a choir presentation, worship, and fellowship with other women of faith.
Williamson hopes the event will not only encourage students but also welcome new visitors to campus.
“I think one dream that we have is that we’ll have people that are coming to our campus that have never been before,” Williamson said. “I think that just extends Harding’s arms wider in our community, which is a wonderful thing. I think that will be a blessing that will come from it.”
